There are many ways to approach the Absolute: Vernissage in Bochum
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Two artistic paths to the Absolute in the Pauluskirche
On Friday, October 9, 2026, the exhibition There are many ways to approach the Absolute... will open at the Evangelical Pauluskirche Bochum. The joint presentation of Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT connects two independent artistic positions that deal with the great questions of humanity, the universal, and the transcendent.
Between philosophical pop art and poetic drawing
BĀLAVAT approaches the Absolute with energetic, powerful, and large-format object images. Lyrical-philosophical texts accompany his works and create conceptual bridges from the profane to the universal. The imagery appears graphic, provocative, and immediate; at the same time, it opens spaces for reflection on the fundamental questions of humanity. Art historically, this stance can be understood as contemporary, philosophically oriented pop art.
Renate von Charlottenburg approaches the same themes in nearly contrary ways. Her detailed pencil-ink drawings appear quiet, tender, and playful. Myths and fairy tales from East and West form the cultural resonance space of her pictorial world. In the meta-romantic style she developed, narrative finesse, humorous subversion, and art historical references to early German Romanticism come together.
An exhibition as an aesthetic experience
The exhibition atmosphere of the Pauluskirche creates a special framework for experiencing the works. Between sacred spatial effects, light, and quiet concentration, painting, drawing, object images, and installations meet as different forms of approach. The presentation invites visitors to perceive colors, shapes, materials, and texts not only analytically but also sensually.
After many separate exhibitions, the works of the two artists, who lived and worked in Bochum for many years, will be shown together for the first time. This juxtaposition makes the curatorial idea visible: The Absolute does not appear as a definitive answer, but as an open space for thought and experience.
Reading and moderation for the opening
At the vernissage, actor Hansa Czypionka will read the texts for BĀLAVAT's images. The evening will be moderated by philosopher and publisher Andreas Mascha. Renate von Charlottenburg will be present at the opening. BĀLAVAT, who passed away in 2019, remains present through his images and writings.
Conclusion: Art among myth, thought, and transcendence
The vernissage promises a focused art experience between philosophical pop art, poetic drawing, myth, and spiritual quest. Visitors will experience two independent positions that open new perspectives on art and cultural education in the sacred space of the Pauluskirche. Those who wish to connect aesthetic experience, art historical references, and existential questions should visit this exhibition live.
Official channels of Renate von Charlottenburg and BĀLAVAT:
- Instagram: no official profile found
- Facebook: no official profile found
- YouTube: no official profile found
- Website Renate von Charlottenburg: https://renate-von-charlottenburg.de
- Website BĀLAVAT: https://balavat.de
